Major Breakthrough in the Registration of Allied Health Professionals in Pakistan

Significant Progress in the Registration of Allied Health Professionals Council of Pakistan

The registration of Allied Health Professionals in Pakistan marks a crucial advancement in the healthcare sector. With the establishment of the Allied Health Professionals Council of Pakistan (AHPCP) under the Council Act 2022, this initiative seeks to ensure formal recognition, licensing, and professional standards for AHPs across the nation. However, this mission encountered delays due to institutional challenges.

Pakistan’s allied health workforce includes physiotherapists, dietitians, radiology technicians, medical technologists, and many others. These professionals are essential to the delivery of quality healthcare. Therefore, their registration under a central authority ensures professional recognition, accountability, and improved training standards.

Although registration promised many benefits, the process moved slowly. In fact, institutional inefficiencies and opposing interests created ongoing barriers.

Barriers to Registering Allied Health Professionals in Pakistan

Despite its importance, the registration process struggled to gain momentum. Multiple stakeholders — some driven by self-interest or procedural roadblocks — continued to delay progress.

Meanwhile, amid these hurdles, Syed Asad Abbas Naqvi, Chairman of the Allied Health Organization Action Committee and General Secretary of the Allied Health Organization Punjab, became a powerful voice for the profession. He led advocacy efforts on behalf of millions of allied health professionals. Moreover, his persistent activism drew attention from both federal and provincial governments.

Federal Ombudsman Supports Allied Health Professionals Pakistan

After months of tireless advocacy, Naqvi and his team presented their case to the Federal Ombudsman. The Ombudsman thoroughly investigated the matter and issued clear directions to the AHPCP to begin the registration process immediately.

This decision marked a turning point. It confirmed that the government had finally acknowledged the urgency of the issue. However, the council appealed the Ombudsman’s ruling to the President of Pakistan, further delaying progress. As per the law, the President was required to respond within 90 days.

President of Pakistan Intervenes in Allied Health Professionals Registration

On January 7, 2025, the President invited both parties — including Naqvi and the AHPCP secretary — for an in-person briefing. During this session, the President expressed clear disappointment in the council’s handling of the matter.

He noted that the council had sent the case to an incorrect forum, causing unnecessary delays and wasting precious time. In a strong statement, the President even suggested imposing a penalty on the council for its negligence.

As a result, the AHPCP formally apologized to the President. The council committed to immediately starting the registration process for all allied health professionals.

A Landmark Moment for the Allied Health Community

This intervention represents a major milestone. For the first time, the President of Pakistan has now endorsed the registration of AHPs and instructed the council to act without delay. Thousands of professionals across the country now feel hopeful and energized.

Thanks to the relentless efforts of Syed Asad Abbas Naqvi and his team, the voice of the allied health community has finally been heard. Ultimately, their advocacy has translated into real action and institutional accountability.

Looking Forward: What This Means for the Future

The registration of allied health professionals will shape the future of Pakistan’s healthcare system. By acknowledging its mistake and apologizing, the council has taken a first step toward restoring trust. Soon, the upcoming registration drive will provide legal identity, job security, and career growth for countless professionals.

This move, in turn, will uplift the allied health sector and strengthen the country’s entire healthcare structure. Consequently, patients will benefit from better-trained, regulated, and accountable health workers.

Furthermore, the case sets a precedent. It shows how persistent advocacy, legal action, and government support can resolve long-standing issues and bring institutional reform.

Conclusion: A New Era Begins

With registration now underway, allied health professionals finally have a seat at the table. They can move forward with confidence, knowing that their profession is officially recognized. This marks the beginning of a new chapter — one of regulation, dignity, and empowerment for the allied health community.

The coming months will be crucial. As the council implements the registration process, Pakistan’s healthcare workforce will become more organized and efficient — a win for professionals and patients alike.